Support Strategies for Parents of Children with Dyslexia
Helping Your Child Thrive at Home
Children with dyslexia can become successful readers and learners when they receive appropriate support, encouragement, and evidence-based instruction. While intervention provided by trained professionals is essential, parents play a critical role in helping build confidence and reinforcing literacy skills at home.
1. Read Aloud Every Day
• Model fluency and expression.
• Discuss vocabulary and characters to build comprehension.
2. Listen to Audiobooks
• Allow access to age-appropriate content above their current reading level.
• Reduces the barrier of decoding and promotes a love for stories.
3. Create a Positive Reading Environment
• Designate a quiet, comfortable space for reading.
• Keep a variety of high-interest books and magazines accessible.
4. Practice Reading in Short Sessions
• Use 15-20 minute intervals to prevent fatigue and frustration.
• Focus on quality and success rather than quantity.
5. Support Organization and Routines
• Use checklists, color-coding, and visual calendars to manage assignments.
• Establish a consistent daily schedule for homework and study.
6. Use Multisensory Learning Activities
• Incorporate touch, movement, and sound when practicing spelling or phonics.
• Examples: Writing in sand, using letter tiles, or tracing letters while saying sounds.
7. Encourage Independent Strengths
• Highlight and support their talents in areas like art, sports, science, or music.
• Success outside of reading helps build overall self-worth.
8. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
• Simplify complex instructions into manageable parts.
• Celebrate the completion of each small milestone.
9. Use Technology Supports
• Explore speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and specialized fonts.
• Utilize educational apps designed for dyslexic learners.
10. Build Vocabulary Through Conversation
• Expose them to high-level language and complex concepts through talk.
• Discuss 'big words' encountered during your day.
11. Communicate Regularly with Teachers
• Share what works at home and ask for updates on school progress.
• Collaborate on implementing necessary accommodations.
12. Advocate for Your Child
• Understand their educational rights (Section 504/IDEA).
• Ensure they have access to appropriate evaluations and services.
13. Focus on Confidence and Self-Esteem
• Praise effort and perseverance, not just the final result.
• Be patient and maintain a positive attitude toward learning.
Remember, your child is essentially learning to read in a way that their brain wasn't originally wired to do. It takes time, consistency, and a lot of heart. Your belief in them is their most powerful tool. Together, you can navigate these challenges and unlock their full potential.
Advocacy and Rights
These Louisiana Department of Education guides explain dyslexia, parent rights, and the state’s evaluation process.
Recommended Reading
Deepen your understanding with these foundational texts on dyslexia and literacy development.
This landmark book is an essential guide for parents, providing scientifically-based information on how to help children with dyslexia succeed.
The definitive guide to the untapped power of dyslexic thinking and its vital role in our future.
Unlocking the intelligence and potential of the dyslexic brain through a lens of neurological strengths.